FDA Bans Lindane from Pesticides

The Los Angeles Times reported that the EPA, in a long anticipated move, has banned Lindane for use in pesticides. Lindane is a pesticide similar to DDT and over 52 different countries have limited its use. Lindane can cause significant damage to the environment as it does not break down naturally and can contaminate food chains and oceans. In addition, Lindanes can cause severe damage to humans as it attacks the liver, nervous, and immune system. Despite recognizing these threats, the EPA has taken a while and been very methodical about barring Lindane from use in the environment. This most recent ban is the conclusion of a 10-year review of agricultural pesticides. Lindane still is still used in some prescription shampoos and lotions used to treat head lice and scabies, but doctors rarely prescribe it.